What is equality?
At its core, equality means fairness: we must ensure that individuals, or groups of individuals, are not treated less favourably because of their protected characteristics.
Equality also means equality of opportunity: we must also ensure that those who may be disadvantaged can get the tools they need to access the same, fair opportunities as their peers.
What is diversity?
Diversity is recognising, respecting and celebrating each other's differences. A diverse environment is one with a wide range of backgrounds and mindsets, which allows for an empowered culture of creativity and innovation.
What is inclusion?
Inclusion means creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. An inclusive environment can only be created once we are more aware of our unconscious biases, and have learned how to manage them.
(https://www.ph.ed.ac.uk/equality-diversity-and-inclusion/about-edi/what-does-equality-diversity-and-inclusion-mean)
At Konflux Theatre, we are passionate about giving every child an opportunity to shine without traditional learning boundaries and we therefore developed our ‘It Makes a World of Difference’ Play in a Day to support and make all children feel valued.
It explores the many issues raised around equality and diversity and allows pupils to learn, understand and celebrate how we can make the world a happier, healthier and better place.
There are so many benefits to teaching and encouraging diversity in the classroom including preparing students for the wider world as they reach employment age as well as fostering senses of creativity and empathy.
How can we highlight diversity in the classroom?
- Try different foods together. Food is a great gateway to learning about other cultures. Each pupil could bring a different dish that’s special to them and their families. Not only is it a great way to learn about different traditions but a nice way to bring students and teachers together.
- Mark important festivals from different religions and cultures. If there are traditional costumes or props, these can be incorporated into themed and awareness days – perhaps even create a display of some of your favourites!
- Encourage pupils to be inquisitive and ask questions about circumstances they are unfamiliar with. Prejudice tends to form from a lack of understanding. If pupils feel comfortable and unafraid of learning about differences, we can hopefully look toward a more cohesive society in future.
